"The Tarot is symbolism; it speaks no other language and offers no other signs."
-A. E. WAITE, The Key to the Tarot
"I welcome you to a book-no, a series of living, breathing seminars in which you will learn how to approach symbols and make them yo...
This is the first in a series of spreads based upon the tarot symbols studied in this course. It makes use of the concepts discussed in the classes on the pillars, the rose and lily, and the crown, and it is ideally suited for conflict resolution readings. The layout below consists of two vertical columns of four cards each-the Pillars-spaced about six inches apart. The left-hand pillar represents one side of the conflict-a person, group, choice, or idea. The right-hand pillar represents the opposing side.
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Three inches or so up from the bottom, two cards are placed in the central area between the pillars. The card on the left is the Rose. The card on the right is the Lily. They are separated from each other by the space of one card.
Directly above that space, place the final card-the Crown.
Each four-card Pillar describes the energies and characteristics that make up that side of the conflict. They point out the core issues that are important to that side-those things that define its position in the conflict and that are holding it back from reaching resolution. Although read sequentially, each set of four cards should be considered as a group.
Each card in a Pillar should be contrasted with the card in the same position in the opposite Pillar. So you have four sets of pairs: i-5, 2-6, 3-7, and 4-8. For example, let's say card #i is The Magician and card #5 is The Star reversed. On the one hand, the first pillar is expressing a focused and willful energy, while the card opposite it might indicate a lack of equilibrium and a sense that all is not right with the world. Perhaps there might be a wish for quiet withdrawal as opposed to going full steam ahead. You can see right away how these opposing energies can contribute to the conflict.
The three cards in the center hold the key to how the two sides can work towards passing between the pillars and moving forward together.
The Rose is the path of the heart. The card in this position will show the nature of a loving way to proceed-how to express emotions in a positive way.
The Lily is the path of the mind. The card in this position will show the nature of a rational way to proceed-what to focus mental energy on.
The Crown defines the higher purpose of the conflict and its resolution and is the outcome to hold as a common goal.
Although much can be seen from this spread in a quick read, we suggest you leave the cards out for a while (or write them in a notebook) and contemplate them over a period of time. Conflicts made up of the immovable blocks that make up the pillars are usually not resolved overnight and bear thoughtful consideration and persistent effort.
May this spread help find a way through for you and for those who seek your guidance.
